Facial volumetric correction with injectable poly-L-lactic acid

Dermatol Surg. 2005 Nov;31(11 Pt 2):1511-7; discussion 1517-8. doi: 10.2310/6350.2005.31236.

Abstract

Background: Polymers of lactic acid'have been widely used for many years in different types of medical devices, such as resorbable sutures, intrabone implants, and soft tissue implants. Injectable poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA; Sculptra), a synthetic, biodegradable polymer, has gained widespread popularity in Europe for the treatment of facial changes associated with aging.

Objective: To provide background information on injectable PLLA and to describe clinical experience with its use in Europe for facial volume enhancement.

Methods: Technique varies with site of injection. Generally, the product is implanted subcutaneously or intradermally in a series of treatments. No allergy testing is required.

Results: Based on experience in more than 2,500 patients, injectable PLLA has been used successfully for the correction of nasolabial folds, mid- and lower facial volume loss, jawline laxity, and other signs of facial aging. Correction lasts for 18 to 24 months in most patients.

Conclusions: Injectable PLLA treatment provides an excellent and prolonged correction of a variety of facial wrinkles, depressions, and laxity with a minimally invasive procedure that does not require allergy testing or a recovery period.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cosmetic Techniques
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections
  • Lactic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Middle Aged
  • Polyesters
  • Polymers / therapeutic use*
  • Rhytidoplasty / methods*
  • Skin Aging*

Substances

  • Polyesters
  • Polymers
  • Lactic Acid
  • poly(lactide)